1996 BMW 523 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 BMW 523 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Golf. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 1980 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 523 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 100 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |